Prop 8

This is my prop 8 sign. It has been up for 2 weeks now. No one has taken it...even through Halloween night (though we have lost 2 others previously). I am grateful that my freedom of speech was not violated this time. I feel akin to others who proudly display their beliefs, either for or against, in appropriate ways. This is the beauty of living in a country where the laws we uphold come from the voice of the majority...or should come from this majority.

Much has been said on this subject, much has been written. The lines are drawn in the sand and to spend much time writing my convictions here would be to endlessly quote others who have said it so much better. So here is my favorite opinion piece. It pains me to see things like this, meant to air on TV today. This has never been about hate. It was never meant to segregate a group of people or to demean them in any way. Those that cannot or will not see beyond the fallacies presented will never understand my view.

I believe wholeheartedly in the family. I have a very strong testimony of this cause, of why we are fighting as a people for this amendment. I do not have all the answers and I do not know all the repercussions but I know that we have a prophet today who speaks to us the will of the Lord. I have chosen my side. I will stand united with God. I have felt His peace as I have prayed for guidance on these issues. This is no small thing and sometimes it is very difficult to stand for truth and righteousness but I know I am here in this state for this purpose, today. I am grateful for the opportunity that I have had to grow and to be strengthened by my God. I have participated recently in a scripture study group with some other women from my ward. We have studied the book of Mosiah in the Book of Mormon and I know that it was no small coincidence that we began and finished when we did. The Lord prepares his people for the trials they will face. He has prepared me. I know of his love and his willingness to guide me. I am hopeful when I read Mosiah 24:14-15:

14 And I will also ease the burdens which are put upon your shoulders, that even you cannot feel them upon your backs, even while you are in bondage; and this will I do that ye may stand as witnesses for me hereafter, and that ye may know of a surety that I, the Lord God, do visit my people in their afflictions.
15 And now it came to pass that the burdens which were laid upon Alma and his brethren were made light; yea, the Lord did strengthen them that they could bear up their burdens with ease, and they did submit cheerfully and with patience to all the will of the Lord.

I know that if move forward, work, pray and pour my heart out to the Lord, that through my faith I will be strengthened and my burdens lightened in such a way that I can feel happiness, peace, and be cheerful amidst these struggles. This may be the greatest blessing I could seek for.

Today this country will cast their votes. It is a privilege and an honor to have the opportunity to do so. Make your voice heard!