If we are going for confessions, here is one of mine that makes me feel terrible.
I go into freakout mode when I hear religious references in public.
Seriously, freakout mode. If I am alone in the car, listening to talk radio, and a caller quotes scripture, I just turn it off. Something inside me says “crazy” and I am done listening. When someone says “God bless you” I grimace. I can’t stand it. “Praise Jesus” or “Praise the Lord” or anything along those lines drives me absolutely bonkers. I just tune that person out entirely, for quite a while.
I don’t know what it is. I don’t think I am ashamed of my faith or my Heavenly Father. I am open about my own religious beliefs. Twice in the past two months people have just walked up to me and asked if I were Mormon (both times at school). When I said yes, and asked what made them ask, they just said I “looked” like a Mormon, whatever that means. No one ever said I “looked” like a Baptist, or a Christian. What does a Mormon even look like? (pretty sure in these two instances they weren’t guessing based on garment lines)
Back to the subject though, “God willing” doesn’t bug me, but I think that is the only Christian religious reference that doesn’t turn me off in public. I don’t mind speaking of religious things in small private groups, whether that be among those of my own faith, mainstream Christians, or others. But in public, scripture, prayers, references to higher powers, hymns, anything, they just freak me out, in a real, physiological way. And it makes me feel very guilty every time it happens.
Steven:
What does a Mormon look like? It is actaully pretty easy to discern a member of the Church by the Spirit; call it your constant companion as long as you’re living worthy of it.
As to religious references, I suspect most people are just trying to live their religion as they understand it, and these phrases are their way of expressing love for their Savior and/or bearing witness. Remember, where much is given, much is expected; we can all learn eternal truths for one another.
You are a special young man with unbelieveable potential and a strong testimony; never doubt who you are and where you have the opportunity to go. You are loved by all of those around you!
Love, Russ