Many of us who live religious lives are blessed with a more liberal soul. We may also be burdened with mental, emotional, or physical health issues. Some of us may also experience a minor or significant faith crisis, and we struggle to find empathetic souls for help. As we try to understand the world around us, we often think that something must be profoundly wrong with us. This sentiment is especially relevant when our friends or associates tie right-wing or extremist politics into religious doctrine or make politics their new religion. We may be different, but we are also good.

We can freely choose a left path or fork in the river and remain even more devoted to God and to the rights and protection of all our human family, including Mother Earth with all the diversity she gifts us! Most things in life, including doctrine, are not binary or simple constructs of right and wrong. Depending on the setting—it can drift more complicated. There may be paths that we do not fully understand. But one binding thread is that we can remain devoted to each other and the planet while discovering God—in our lives, in our works, and His vast creations of divinity. We can find communion within a common peace as we become better stewards of the Earth and better friends to all who rely upon it. These dreams are attainable regardless of anyone's economic stature, national origin, physical or mental health issues, gender, age, sexual orientation, or other things that make us unique. Our differences can bring Earth and us into a celestial realm of lasting grace and compassion.

There is one scripture found in the Book of Mormon in Alma 1:30 that changed my life:

“And thus, in their prosperous circumstances, they did not send away any who were naked, or that were hungry, or that were athirst, or that were sick, or that had not been nourished; and they did not set their hearts upon riches; therefore they were liberal to all, both old and young, both bond and free, both male and female, whether out of the church or in the church, having no respect to persons as to those who stood in need.”

We can recognize our vast blessings and learn to impart and be kinder or more liberal to all. So much of life’s variety and beauty depends upon you and your gentle and empathetic hearts and what you give. So don't altogether leave your faith or hope for a better future—become bitter, lashing out. Instead, find a safe zone in God's lobby or the secret place of your wilderness or heart. Take a rest and spend time taking care of or rewilding yourself as well as rebuilding genuine relationships. Let us seek peace and impart our liberal spirits together, and as we do so, never forget—that we need each other!

When we fully comprehend the above scripture, we can also better understand that being liberal in our care of others necessitates a corresponding effort to care for our planet. Connecting to Mother Earth and her patient history and care for us helps us also find time to reconnect our family history. Learning about our pasts will help us rediscover our present purpose and shape our futures. Again—caring for the poor or forsaken is the first step in becoming a wise steward of the Earth and a valued steward of our families. As we drown ourselves in these kind efforts—we will also find our path back to the loving arms of our Heavenly Parents.

So—as you can see, I am a little different, but now I understand and appreciate it—and that is why I write.

Your friend —Doug W. Evans

“The water which rises in the mountain is the blood which keeps the mountain in life.”
—Leonard da Vinci