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Ray, I really appreciate the advice to not take it so literally. I take everything literally which is probably a main reason why this church gives me so much anxiety. I like the idea of trying to just remember that I can't fail. I spend the whole time stressing over everything I am covenanting to an...

Thanks ydeve for a different perspective on what I am actually covenanting to do. It is interesting that you bring that up because last time I was there and it got to that part in the endowment, I felt like I was lying when I agreed. I don't know if I am being dishonest when I am agreeing to somethi...

Thanks, Always Thinking. That is a really good idea. We have family names that need to have initiatories, baptisms and sealings done. I still don't feel any type of spirituality doing them but at least they don't cause the overwhelming fear. Maybe, I could suggest we do some of those next time we vi...

I have never felt comfort or God's presence in the temple. Even when I was at my most believing state, I just did it because it is portrayed as one if not THE most important aspect of our church. Stress is the main feeling I get when I attend. I haven't been in about 6 months. I have been fighting a...

Vincent, add me to list of people who relate so much to your post. I was in your position not so long ago. I asked to get released from my stressful leadership calling and am now doing a calling that doesn't put me in tears every Sunday and most of the week before. It still is very hard for me to go...

I remember when I heard the talk "On Being Genuine" by President Uchtdorf. I loved it and was really hoping some change would come out of it. He talks about making sure your heart is in the right place and gave a story about how a stake backed away from setting a bunch of goals because what really m...

Ann, I love what you said. I really get upset when I am made to feel that I don't believe in God or have faith because I don't believe in polygamy or all the rules that are required to get to the Celestial Kingdom or the November policy, etc. I do believe in God. I also feel like I have more faith i...

I can really relate to what your are going through. My circumstances are different but the question is still the same. In fact, I was just about to post asking almost the exact same question. It is so hard! One day I feel like Korihor and that because of my unbelief I will be living a life of misery...

It sounds like you have a great bishop! That's great that you are able to have someone who is willing to listen to you and your concerns. This question is really hard for me to answer because I feel like I have a pretty good bishop, too. My problems with church come from higher up than the local war...

CNSL1, I love that story! I love that you didn't fall in line with the normal "rules" and I love that it worked. I honestly think all ward service: callings, VT and HT, and of course missionary work would bring better results without all of the goals and strict guidelines trying force members and mi...