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The following are a few of the more recent letters submitted by our readers. Submit your own letter here.
this week | last week | 2 weeks ago | 3 weeks ago, or older
Tiffany G Lewis: Eating healthy should be the Mormon way
Congratulations, Tiffany for articulating an important point that we don't hear enough: The commandment to be wise stewards of our 'earthly temples' extends beyond a policy of non-destruction. We are equally responsible to take care of our bodies in a positive way. Yes, it is hard, as Tiffany mentions, to change our palate and our food culture, but we have never been a people who fear doing what is hard, because we place a greater value on doing what is right.
– Angie Fairchild, Provo, Utah
"Public Square" reprint on toleration vs. truth
I read with interest the reprint of a 1994 column on tolerance from the "Public Square" section of the publication "First Things" by the now late Reverend Richard John Neuhaus, a Roman Catholic convert and cleric. My interest was particularly piqued because of a statement made by the Rev. Neuhaus in an article dated December 7, 2007 and available on the "First Things" Web site, in reference to candidate Mitt Romney, that a fear of legitimizing the LDS Church in the eyes of humanity, alone, justified those who refuse to lend their vote or support to Romney (or any Mormon, for that matter). For Neuhaus, good government (if you believe that a Romney presidency would provide that) was less important than making sure Mormons stay at the back of the bus when it comes to the community of believers in America. Consequently, I find the Rev. Neuhaus a less than credible source on the subject of tolerance.
– Thomas J. O'Neill, Buckhannon, West Virginia
Referrals only go to the Select
I too have sat in Brother Card's seat waiting for the "perfect" missionary. However, here is a point of view for your consideration: While members are waiting for that "perfect" missionary to refer their friends to, missionaries are in the process of being "perfected" out on the streets. Each time they are rejected, "punked," spit upon, shoved, sworn at, ignored, and otherwise abused they are in the process of perfection.
– Linda Burton, Seoul, Korea
Beth Palmer's "Screaming for Tolerance"
I have been reading Mormon Times for a very long time and up until now have enjoyed uplifting, spiritual, and motivating experiences derived from reading the articles you have carefully chosen to run. However, Beth Palmer's article in which she slams Glen Beck's "divisive" campaign and in a subsequent paragraph carefully alludes to him as "extremist" rises to the level that I not only have decided to e-mail you to complain, but I have decided not read any more of her articles.
– Destry Hunt, Albuquerque, New Mexico
Orson Scott Card's "Seeking answers? Try game"
I appreciated Orson Scott Card's complimentary review of my card game, "Blast from the Past". I wanted to respond to a few of his critiques: The Oakland Temple was in fact the second LDS Temple in California. Somehow that error was not detected as I checked and double-checked my data. As for Mrs. Cartwright's drowning, I wish I could have included the full story on the playing card. If any readers are interested in reading it from the History of the Church, Volume 6, pp. 160-162, they can follow this link.
– Vaughn Armstrong, Sunset, Utah
Everybody needs a buddy
"Everybody Needs a Buddy" was an outstanding reminder to be faithful in your home teaching and visiting teaching assignments. My grandfather was in a nursing facility for four years suffering from Alzheimer's. After he died the nurse said to my mother, "You had better call that man from your church that comes to and visit your father each month!" My mother was not active but my grandfather's records had been transferred when he moved into the nursing home and he had a faithful Home Teacher! This man visited my grandfather each month. My mother asked this man to say a prayer at my grandfather's funeral. We were so thankful for that wonderful Home Teacher in San Diego!
– Corinne Walker, Marlborough, MA
"It's Monday, so what else could team be?"
Up until this issue I have enjoyed reading the "MormonTimes." However, the cover story about the softball team that plays every Monday night bothered me. I understand this publication is not an official publication of the church, but surely it should feature articles not just about members, but members who follow the counsel of prophets. Go read the statements prophets have made about Family Home Evening, what it should comprise and what its purposes are. I realize that none of us follow every counsel from every prophet perfectly, but printing an article like this gives far-reaching tacit approval to a practice that very clearly does not meet prophetic expectations.
– Miriam Roberts, Frannie, Wyoming
Healing the rift
I just don't understand this whole idea that children of children of children of someone who did wrong should now apologize to the children of children of children of those wronged. (Or, in the case of slavery, today's government apologizing to the descendants of slaves for the government did to their ancestors. And to ask for money as reparations is outrageous.) I was glad to hear that the statement from the Brigham Young family was not an outright apology, because they didn't do anything wrong to the Emma Smith family. If anyone should apologize, and I'm not sure an apology is needed in the first place, it should be from Brigham himself to Emma herself, and probably vice versa. There was an indication in the article that they believe this has taken place in the next life. So, can we all let it go now?
– Shirley Ruth, West Jordan, Utah
Utah's SB81 will break up LDS families
I am an Arizonan and a branch president of a Spanish language branch. I have been witness to the abject horror faced by young American children of Hispanic descent who await jack booted thugs on their doorsteps coming to take their parents away. It is truly reminiscent of Nazi Germany in the late 1930's when persons of Jewish heritage first suffered a similar plight. This is not to compare the Utah legislature to Nazis but to object, in the strongest terms, to such short-sightedness and unfairness. Utah's and and America's policies are responsible for the current immigration situation. These wonderful people were invited here under no uncertain terms. This is so despite laws that forbade their coming. They did not read our statute books. But they could see our policies which were tantamount to an open door invitation. Now things have changed -- including the fact that their children are as American as yours. It is immoral in the most egregious sense of the word to now relegate these young Americans to the legal dustbin that these laws create.
– William Richardson, Mesa, Arizona
Utah's SB81 will break up LDS families
I am tired of excuses. I am expected to obey the law and I expect others to do the same. If I choose to break the law, I will suffer the consequences as would my children. If you are in this country illegally, you are breaking the law and should be expected to suffer the consequences. Illegal immigrants are putting their own children and families at risk! Not the lawmakers! Mr. Johnston writes, "good LDS Hispanic families will now be forced to suffer". Well, "good" LDS Hispanic families are not breaking the law and putting their families at risk of deportation! WE ARE HERE LEGALLY! No more double standards. We are responsible for our own choices. Mr. Johnston, stop insulting my intelligence, my country, and my heritage.
– L. Rascon, Henderson Nevada
Utah's SB81 will break up LDS families
In response to Jerry Johnston's column on immigration, look at Utah State Attorney General's attitude toward polygamists in Utah. He refuses to prosecute any of them, except for child abuse. Why can't the Utah Legislature do the same with illegal immigrants? Leave them alone, unless they break the law. Then process them for their crimes, not their immigration status. I find it appalling that an entire segment of our state's population is being held suspect, by virtue of their heritage.
– Kelli Allred, Herriman, Utah
Utah's SB81 will break up LDS families
I'm glad I'm not the first to be unhappy with Jerry Johnston's column today. I think I know where he is coming from, but his compassion should work on changing the law instead of asking people to sanction breaking it. Perhaps we need to have a discussion on the importance of keeping the laws of the land, as the church teaches, instead of ignoring those laws or breaking them outright. If the law is changed so be it, but for now these people are here illegally.
– Shirley Ruth, West Jordan, Utah
Utah's SB81 will break up LDS families
Dear Editor,
I read Mr. Johnston's article regarding Utah Senate Bill 81. His direct comparison of the Utah Legislature and SB81 to the Missouri Legislature and Governor Boggs Extermination Order is personally offensive and does a grave injustice to the Latter Day Saints who were driven from Nauvoo by force and also the present-day senators. I expected better journalism from your staff. Comparing LDS Pioneers to present-day illegal immigrants is pitiful.
– Kevin Richins, Uintah, Utah
Jon Huntsman chosen as China Ambassador
I read the article by Joel Campbell. I wanted to add this: I've seen on the BYU channel how the Young Ambassadors from BYU performed in China in the 1970s. Chinese television has shown that visit in reruns since then. Mormons are well-known in China because of that. Gov. Huntsman will be accepted there, and this is a wonderful appointment for America!
– Lynn Van Landschoot, North Las Vegas, Nevada
People trying to prove The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to being phony.
I was converted by a very special miracle in 1969 and learned that the church is the only true church on the earth by the Holy Ghost telling me so. After that conversion, I never looked back for a second. Why would I, when I know it is true? It does not bother me one iota that others do not believe it to be what it truly is. If anyone really wants to know, they can do as I did to find out. If they do not want to know, it is nothing off of my salvation. Everyone will have the same opportunity I have had. If they do not want to accept it, so be it. I know it is true and will not let anyone take that from me. I am the only one whom I can take back to Heavenly Father's presence. No one can take me or keep me from going, so I do not feel the least bit sorry for anyone who will not sincerely seek to know the real truth. Why should I?
– Bill Baumgardner Sr., New Philadelphis, Ohio
Missionary's reaction to 'Italian media misunderstand Mormons'
I was interested to read Joel Campbell's column today about the prevalence of references to polygamy in the Italian media's coverage of the church.
I know that during my own mission (Italy Catania, 1987-89), one of the questions I was asked most often was, "How many wives will you have?" I looked at that as a teaching opportunity, and sometimes it really was.
A good ice-breaker was often a response like, "One will be plenty, thanks!" Most people were sincerely surprised to hear that we no longer practiced plural marriage, and a frank discussion about that way of life often led to further discussion about why Mormons were so dedicated to their faith, in the past and in the present. That historical difference often opened doors to other present-day differences, like our observance of the Word of Wisdom in a country known for its wine consumption. I found the Italian people to be warm, friendly and genuinely curious about how we were different from the Roman Catholic majority in their country. As a convert who grew up Catholic, I was often able to add some insight to that discussion. I may not have made many converts, but I did make friends.
– Steve Florman, Andover, Minn.
this week | last week | 2 weeks ago | 3 weeks ago, or older
Tiffany G Lewis: Eating healthy should be the Mormon way
Congratulations, Tiffany for articulating an important point that we don't hear enough: The commandment to be wise stewards of our 'earthly temples' extends beyond a policy of non-destruction. We are equally responsible to take care of our bodies in a positive way. Yes, it is hard, as Tiffany mentions, to change our palate and our food culture, but we have never been a people who fear doing what is hard, because we place a greater value on doing what is right.
– Angie Fairchild, Provo, Utah
"Public Square" reprint on toleration vs. truth
I read with interest the reprint of a 1994 column on tolerance from the "Public Square" section of the publication "First Things" by the now late Reverend Richard John Neuhaus, a Roman Catholic convert and cleric. My interest was particularly piqued because of a statement made by the Rev. Neuhaus in an article dated December 7, 2007 and available on the "First Things" Web site, in reference to candidate Mitt Romney, that a fear of legitimizing the LDS Church in the eyes of humanity, alone, justified those who refuse to lend their vote or support to Romney (or any Mormon, for that matter). For Neuhaus, good government (if you believe that a Romney presidency would provide that) was less important than making sure Mormons stay at the back of the bus when it comes to the community of believers in America. Consequently, I find the Rev. Neuhaus a less than credible source on the subject of tolerance.
– Thomas J. O'Neill, Buckhannon, West Virginia
Referrals only go to the Select
I too have sat in Brother Card's seat waiting for the "perfect" missionary. However, here is a point of view for your consideration: While members are waiting for that "perfect" missionary to refer their friends to, missionaries are in the process of being "perfected" out on the streets. Each time they are rejected, "punked," spit upon, shoved, sworn at, ignored, and otherwise abused they are in the process of perfection.
– Linda Burton, Seoul, Korea
Beth Palmer's "Screaming for Tolerance"
I have been reading Mormon Times for a very long time and up until now have enjoyed uplifting, spiritual, and motivating experiences derived from reading the articles you have carefully chosen to run. However, Beth Palmer's article in which she slams Glen Beck's "divisive" campaign and in a subsequent paragraph carefully alludes to him as "extremist" rises to the level that I not only have decided to e-mail you to complain, but I have decided not read any more of her articles.
– Destry Hunt, Albuquerque, New Mexico
Orson Scott Card's "Seeking answers? Try game"
I appreciated Orson Scott Card's complimentary review of my card game, "Blast from the Past". I wanted to respond to a few of his critiques: The Oakland Temple was in fact the second LDS Temple in California. Somehow that error was not detected as I checked and double-checked my data. As for Mrs. Cartwright's drowning, I wish I could have included the full story on the playing card. If any readers are interested in reading it from the History of the Church, Volume 6, pp. 160-162, they can follow this link.
– Vaughn Armstrong, Sunset, Utah
Everybody needs a buddy
"Everybody Needs a Buddy" was an outstanding reminder to be faithful in your home teaching and visiting teaching assignments. My grandfather was in a nursing facility for four years suffering from Alzheimer's. After he died the nurse said to my mother, "You had better call that man from your church that comes to and visit your father each month!" My mother was not active but my grandfather's records had been transferred when he moved into the nursing home and he had a faithful Home Teacher! This man visited my grandfather each month. My mother asked this man to say a prayer at my grandfather's funeral. We were so thankful for that wonderful Home Teacher in San Diego!
– Corinne Walker, Marlborough, MA
"It's Monday, so what else could team be?"
Up until this issue I have enjoyed reading the "MormonTimes." However, the cover story about the softball team that plays every Monday night bothered me. I understand this publication is not an official publication of the church, but surely it should feature articles not just about members, but members who follow the counsel of prophets. Go read the statements prophets have made about Family Home Evening, what it should comprise and what its purposes are. I realize that none of us follow every counsel from every prophet perfectly, but printing an article like this gives far-reaching tacit approval to a practice that very clearly does not meet prophetic expectations.
– Miriam Roberts, Frannie, Wyoming
Healing the rift
I just don't understand this whole idea that children of children of children of someone who did wrong should now apologize to the children of children of children of those wronged. (Or, in the case of slavery, today's government apologizing to the descendants of slaves for the government did to their ancestors. And to ask for money as reparations is outrageous.) I was glad to hear that the statement from the Brigham Young family was not an outright apology, because they didn't do anything wrong to the Emma Smith family. If anyone should apologize, and I'm not sure an apology is needed in the first place, it should be from Brigham himself to Emma herself, and probably vice versa. There was an indication in the article that they believe this has taken place in the next life. So, can we all let it go now?
– Shirley Ruth, West Jordan, Utah
Utah's SB81 will break up LDS families
I am an Arizonan and a branch president of a Spanish language branch. I have been witness to the abject horror faced by young American children of Hispanic descent who await jack booted thugs on their doorsteps coming to take their parents away. It is truly reminiscent of Nazi Germany in the late 1930's when persons of Jewish heritage first suffered a similar plight. This is not to compare the Utah legislature to Nazis but to object, in the strongest terms, to such short-sightedness and unfairness. Utah's and and America's policies are responsible for the current immigration situation. These wonderful people were invited here under no uncertain terms. This is so despite laws that forbade their coming. They did not read our statute books. But they could see our policies which were tantamount to an open door invitation. Now things have changed -- including the fact that their children are as American as yours. It is immoral in the most egregious sense of the word to now relegate these young Americans to the legal dustbin that these laws create.
– William Richardson, Mesa, Arizona
Utah's SB81 will break up LDS families
I am tired of excuses. I am expected to obey the law and I expect others to do the same. If I choose to break the law, I will suffer the consequences as would my children. If you are in this country illegally, you are breaking the law and should be expected to suffer the consequences. Illegal immigrants are putting their own children and families at risk! Not the lawmakers! Mr. Johnston writes, "good LDS Hispanic families will now be forced to suffer". Well, "good" LDS Hispanic families are not breaking the law and putting their families at risk of deportation! WE ARE HERE LEGALLY! No more double standards. We are responsible for our own choices. Mr. Johnston, stop insulting my intelligence, my country, and my heritage.
– L. Rascon, Henderson Nevada
Utah's SB81 will break up LDS families
In response to Jerry Johnston's column on immigration, look at Utah State Attorney General's attitude toward polygamists in Utah. He refuses to prosecute any of them, except for child abuse. Why can't the Utah Legislature do the same with illegal immigrants? Leave them alone, unless they break the law. Then process them for their crimes, not their immigration status. I find it appalling that an entire segment of our state's population is being held suspect, by virtue of their heritage.
– Kelli Allred, Herriman, Utah
Utah's SB81 will break up LDS families
I'm glad I'm not the first to be unhappy with Jerry Johnston's column today. I think I know where he is coming from, but his compassion should work on changing the law instead of asking people to sanction breaking it. Perhaps we need to have a discussion on the importance of keeping the laws of the land, as the church teaches, instead of ignoring those laws or breaking them outright. If the law is changed so be it, but for now these people are here illegally.
– Shirley Ruth, West Jordan, Utah
Utah's SB81 will break up LDS families
Dear Editor,
I read Mr. Johnston's article regarding Utah Senate Bill 81. His direct comparison of the Utah Legislature and SB81 to the Missouri Legislature and Governor Boggs Extermination Order is personally offensive and does a grave injustice to the Latter Day Saints who were driven from Nauvoo by force and also the present-day senators. I expected better journalism from your staff. Comparing LDS Pioneers to present-day illegal immigrants is pitiful.
– Kevin Richins, Uintah, Utah
Jon Huntsman chosen as China Ambassador
I read the article by Joel Campbell. I wanted to add this: I've seen on the BYU channel how the Young Ambassadors from BYU performed in China in the 1970s. Chinese television has shown that visit in reruns since then. Mormons are well-known in China because of that. Gov. Huntsman will be accepted there, and this is a wonderful appointment for America!
– Lynn Van Landschoot, North Las Vegas, Nevada
People trying to prove The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to being phony.
I was converted by a very special miracle in 1969 and learned that the church is the only true church on the earth by the Holy Ghost telling me so. After that conversion, I never looked back for a second. Why would I, when I know it is true? It does not bother me one iota that others do not believe it to be what it truly is. If anyone really wants to know, they can do as I did to find out. If they do not want to know, it is nothing off of my salvation. Everyone will have the same opportunity I have had. If they do not want to accept it, so be it. I know it is true and will not let anyone take that from me. I am the only one whom I can take back to Heavenly Father's presence. No one can take me or keep me from going, so I do not feel the least bit sorry for anyone who will not sincerely seek to know the real truth. Why should I?
– Bill Baumgardner Sr., New Philadelphis, Ohio
Missionary's reaction to 'Italian media misunderstand Mormons'
I was interested to read Joel Campbell's column today about the prevalence of references to polygamy in the Italian media's coverage of the church.
I know that during my own mission (Italy Catania, 1987-89), one of the questions I was asked most often was, "How many wives will you have?" I looked at that as a teaching opportunity, and sometimes it really was.
A good ice-breaker was often a response like, "One will be plenty, thanks!" Most people were sincerely surprised to hear that we no longer practiced plural marriage, and a frank discussion about that way of life often led to further discussion about why Mormons were so dedicated to their faith, in the past and in the present. That historical difference often opened doors to other present-day differences, like our observance of the Word of Wisdom in a country known for its wine consumption. I found the Italian people to be warm, friendly and genuinely curious about how we were different from the Roman Catholic majority in their country. As a convert who grew up Catholic, I was often able to add some insight to that discussion. I may not have made many converts, but I did make friends.
– Steve Florman, Andover, Minn.
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