MORE POST CONFERENCE

Conference really got me thinking about returning to the church. After all I'm a lot more comfortable with the lifestyle, and I enjoy the uplifting parts of it. I told a friend of mine who also is a bit wayward, and he said. "What have you got to lose?" So I am considering a trial return. And as we all learn in primary, the adversary will do everything to keep you away-

Yesterday I was delivering a piece of art, and the guy who bought it started asking me questions on our walk from the frame shop. He asked me all the questions that make Mormons sound crazy and I had to answer back --- with all the crazy answers. He said,"do you hear how that sounds??" I said yes but its no more crazy than any other religions origin stories. It's not what is important, its important to treat others well, have charity, and take care of your family. He said, "can't you do that without religion? isn't that just part of being a good person?" I said yes, but it gives you an organized context to do it in. "I just don't want people to tell me how to live and who I can and can't marry."
Here I was, just barely in the beginning thoughts of coming back to church, and I had to defend a faith I'm not even totally sure of, and with the gay marriage issue staring me right in the face. I laughed inside at how formulaic it seemed. "The Devil will try to get you when you are on the path to righteousness!!" I can hear my mother saying it now.
The conversation continued back and forth, covering issues about gold plates, secret underwear, multiple wives, and ended when we reached his workplace. I think he still thinks well of me despite my "faith", but its crazy how worked up people can get when it comes to Mormonism. It gives me anxiety, like I shouldn't share it out of consideration for their blood pressure, and mine. Despite that, I welcome these experiences, it sure beats small talk.