I sent my parents an email explaining why I am not able to bless my son. I outlined at a high level why this is the case - My Bishop won't let me because I could not answer yes to a couple temple recommend questions about believing in restoration or sustaining the prophet (And I outlined that is because I have not been able to reconcile the major concerns I have, and that the November 2015 policy broke my heart and in essence I could not support it and also follow the Jesus I was taught about).
Here is part of my dad's response:
And part of my mom's response:"The medium of an email is completely inadequate to convey the deep love and feelings in my heart that I have for you. I have faith in my Heavenly Father, too, take the long view, and affirm that "things will work out." I look forward to a big bear hug!"
Sadly it seems these types of responses are outliers, which is unfortunate considering that most Mormons profess belief in a loving God and compassionate Savior."I hope you know that we would love you no matter what. I’m sorry you have had these challenges to face. I appreciate that you have been thoughtful in trying to determine how you feel and where you stand. Yes, I do need time to process and think about this but I don’t need any time to affirm that I love you and your family no matter what."
I think we do need to acknowledge the good TBMs that are out there, who practice their religion and faith in ways that are positive and supportive. I feel like I won the parent lottery, and I'm sorry that many of you have had much more traumatic and difficult interactions.
There is still work to be done, the relationships with my parents will transform into something else, but I think as long as we keep the long view that love matters most we'll be OK.
