Joy...and a Summary of Many Discussions

I write this entry to summarize some of the underlying points of discussion between LDS gay guys who differ in their decisions regarding sex.

One thing that has been on my mind lately is the situation of gay LDS returned missionaries who choose to live a gay lifestyle. Personally, I have not chosen that route at this time. However, I think I better understand both my contacts who have chosen the gay lifestyle and those who live the Church’s teachings.

I have always believed gay guys who “act” on their feelings when they say it feels natural. They often claim a new sense of joy, peace, and happiness. I have never questioned their emotions, feelings, or new sense of joy.

I believe Mormons sometimes feel that they have a monopoly on joy in this world. Such an attitude is not only false, but it can be dangerous. But here is where the Mormon viewpiont comes in. The scriptures distinguish between various types of joy. Joy from “the works of men” and “the works of the devil” is fleeting. That joy will last for “a season,” and that season may last anywhere from an hour to maybe decades. Some people believes there are different sources of joy while other people do not. That is the main difference of discussion between various gay LDS guys who either live or do not live a gay lifestyle.

The discussion comes down to this: faith and beliefs. Does a person believe God cares about sex? Do they believe there are different sources of joy? Do they have faith in Christ and an eternal reward? Do they believe in scriptures? These are all personal questions people must ask and find out themselves. Personally, I have faith in all these matters. I believe there are different underlying sources of joy.

This concept of joy and its various sources does not just apply to gay people. Some people try to find joy through alcohol or drugs. Some heterosexuals seek for joy by having sex outside of marriage. Others seek for joy through material possessions. The possibilities are endless, but they are common to all people. Everyone in this world seeks joy and other good feelings, but the source of the joy will ultimately determine whether the joy is lasting through the eternities or if the joy is fleeting and eventually empty.

Let me conclude by saying I do not judge people based on their actions. This post was simply to provoke thought and summarize conversations...not to pass judgment. I can’t fully comprehend what a person is going through, so I do not judge. My statements above are meant to be general principles and thoughts I have encountered through my studying. I do not condemn others who make different decisions than me, but rather, may we all find joy in this life and eternal rewards hereafter.