Really?!

Ive always been nervous sharing my beliefs with people not of my faith. I cant stand confrontation. I get really nervous and I feel trapped if I cant answer a question or accusation. Lately I have felt that pressure because of the most recent election. No one has confronted me, but I have had the fear of being put on the spot mostly because of prop 102, the marriage amendment here in AZ. California's is prop 8. I supported this amendment, but I think I was a closet supporter. The only reason I had a sign in my front yard was because my husband brought one home and put it there. I'm sad to say this. I have some friends who are homosexual, although I have not had contact with them for a long time. I also have a couple friends who have a son who is gay. He is a good and kind man. I love and respect the latter two, and it was mostly them who I have been afraid to talk to about this issue. I believe in tolerance, but I also believe that tolerance is not acceptance. I believe in the "ability to hate the sin and not the sinner." I believe in my religion and what my God has told me is true and right.

I was recently made aware of an article here, written by an LDS police officer in California. Reading it made me sad. A lot of the opposition of the propositions I read about were carrying signs that were for love, but they sent a message of hate that completely overrode it. I will never condemn anyone for the lifestyle they choose to live, and I would hope the same would be given to me. I choose to live my religion and not be ashamed, but I hope I can stand tall while doing so and not be afraid of the consequences. I know God will help me in my time of need.



Eta: here is a link with Elder Bednar talking about it. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZE35Tz4lgQ