When Sheri and I began dating about 14 years ago, one of
the hurdles that we had to overcome was our religious differences. Sheri is
Baptist and I am LDS. Initially I found it not wise to discuss religion. Sheri
had felt socially excluded when interacting with many members of my church. We
decided to concentrate on things that we could agree on and build a
relationship of trust, understanding and love.
Last week we attended the annual Christmas Party at the
LDS A-frame. The congregations of the LDS Church and the Little Church in the
Pines and other community members gathered together to feast on prime rib and
celebrate the Savior’s birth. Four years ago we attended this event for the first
time. Sheri nearly required the paramedics to break out the heart paddles!
Mormons and the church she attended were holding a joint event and enjoying
each other’s company. This was unfathomable, apocalyptic stuff!
It was wonderful to visit with many of the Island Park
residents that we have learned to love and appreciate. Joining together to
acknowledge our communal bonds and a shared belief in the divinity of Jesus’
birth is an event that should be serve as a model other communities.
Perhaps some social conflicts could be overcome if
religions were not used as private clubs where non-members hold no value. With
all the destruction occurring throughout the world and here at home, there is a
desperate need for some of the spirit that was exhibited in last week Island Park.
Thank you to everyone who worked so hard to put on the
event. Thanks for the great food, the great choir, the kids program and the
wonderful company. This event is one more reason why Sheri and I love Island
Park so much.
No comments:
Post a Comment