OK. I know it’s a pretty small world, with only one lonely inhabitant. Me. At least for the moment.
For a long time, I have wanted to put my thoughts down on paper, metaphorically speaking. Over the past couple of years, unexpected philosophical developments have shaken my life. They have been quite disconcerting. In October 2015, seven months ago, a friend suggested that I start posting my thoughts in certain social channels. I did. By golly, I found it to be delightfully addicting, cathartic and validating. It also helped me move forward and hone my life’s direction.
Over the past week, several people, in the groups where I post, have suggested that the amount of time I invest in composing would be better served by a blog. I love the Facebook communities. There, I know many and am known by many. The feedback is plentiful, interesting, and helpful in refining my thought processes. The posts by others frequently enlightens and uplifts. At my friends’ gentle nudging’s I’m following their recommendation to venture into a new world. One that is exposed to public scrutiny. No longer behind the protective blanket of closed groups.
For my blog’s theme, I’ve selected religion and spirituality. I’m Mormon. Was raised Mormon. At 19, I served a 2 year full-time mission to Guatemala and El Salvador. Married in the temple. Raised 6 children in the church. Have actively served in many callings . I’m still an active Mormon. But, my faith is transitioning.
For the time being, I plan to discuss changes in my belief, decisions I’ve made, and actions I am in the process of taking. My faith journey is by no means complete. Over the past seven months of posting, much mind morphing has materialized. I’m sure more will be forthcoming. This faith journey has been exciting and exhilarating . . . at times. At others, it’s been a source of frequent anger, sadness, loneliness, alienation, frustration, and depression. My friend who suggested writing was right on. It has been a great help to vent, think, contemplate and refine through the written word.
Now, off to the blogosphere I go.
Tocubit Is Invisible's Cubit 
Hi Sam, I enjoy your posts. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
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Well, Jessica, thank you. My first post ever. My first comment ever. You are awesome!
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I’ll be standing by to read your posts!
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I always love your viewpoints, too. Always have.
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this will surely not be boring 😉
I will need a dictionary by my side.
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Might be long–hopefully not boring.
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I’m looking forward to learning more about your journey 🙂
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Thanks. I really appreciate your feedback.
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I have enjoyed your posts as well, and find you to be a person of integrity. I will look forward to your blogposts…
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Thanks, Kimberly. Sometimes integrity takes work.
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Ditto what Kimberly said!
I admire your integrity and the courage to share your journey!
I look forward to reading your blog post!
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Doggone-it. That courage thing takes work, too.
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I’ll walk with you. I will listen and I’ll try to understand.
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I’m trying to understand, too.
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Thanks, Larry. I can almost hear a primary song.
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My favorite primary verse is ” …until God found one faithful, in whom He could confide.” I can almost hear Emma in the kitchen softly humming the tune. Faithful and true, until the end!
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OK. I perceive your pattern. Pretty sure Popcorn Popping is pending.
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Okay, I’m intrigued. I always enjoyed our stimulating discussions and think about them often. I miss you guys so much. Chuck and I both retire in June. Must make time for each other. But in the meantime, I’ll keep reading.
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Wow! How nice to see you here. Yes, what great discussions we used to have. I sorely miss them. Over the years, I’ve found it very frustrating to find venues and people to have “adult” discussions with. Increasingly, that has included at church. Seven months ago I was referred to some Facebook comment ies where I started to write and share . . . a lot. No longer do I have to search for “stimulating discussions.” Congratulations on your approaching retirement. Best wishes. Patty and I love you guys. Wonderful memories of out annual Thanksgiving adventures.
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I will also be a part of this world. Thank you.
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Welcome to this wonderful world. At least I hope it’s wonderful. It’s an honor and a privilege to have you here!
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Sam, I have always loved the discussions we we have had through the years. Your insight and friendship helped me through some very difficult times. I truly value your friendship, and trust that, even if we don’t get together as much, that the friendship will always be there. You and your wife hold a special spot in my heart and mind.
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Your friendship is a cherished by both Patty and I. Our discussions over the years have been every bit as insightful and valuable to me. We love you, Lani. All my best.
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