Taking a Stand cont'

I was recently reading my friend's blog on taking a stand for Prop 8. I was saddened to read her temple was basically trashed by hateful people who do not understand her religion, or my religion for that matter, and what we believe and stand up for.

I feel that as I get older, this world is growing darker. People fight for what they believe in all the time, but those with strong religious beliefs are being persecuted for what they are taking a stand for. I believe that marriage should be between a man and a woman. I dislike when others tell me that the Bible teaches tolerance and to love others no matter what the difference. I tell them yes it does, but it also says that marriage is between a man and a woman. My biggest concern with people like this is that they pick and choose from the Bible what is convenient for them. I believe and say you either take the Bible for what it says, or you don't take it at all. I don't pick and choose. I'm not perfect in any way. I constantly struggle to live an obedient Christian life, but my Bible is my book of guidance. There are scriptures that bring me and my husband to our knees and we cry.

I don't believe I am above anybody else. I believe that the Bible is the word of God. I believe that those who believe that God is the one and only God will have citizenship in Heaven. I believe that everybody can change for the better and live a blessed life.

For so many who opposed prop 8, took down other people's signs, drove on others property and desecrated churches and temples and other religious buildings, they don't realize they were an example of hatred. I continue to pray for those who need guidance or an epiphany. I pray for those who are persecuted for their religious beliefs, because they are different from others. I pray for a better life for my children. I Pray that hatred will no longer exist. I pray for a better world for all.

I am thankful that so many stood up for their beliefs and took a stand for prop 8. WE are in for a long hard road, please let us stand together, cast our religious differences aside and continue to show love for our neighbors, for those with so much hatred, confusion and despair. We can do wondrous things together. I look forward to taking a stand by your side again.