So OK, I know it's always up to me to follow my own heart, but this one's got me feeling a little odd. I went downstairs and opened the door, fully intending to tell them I was perfectly happy living a sinful life, and that I found their beliefs offensive and distasteful and their methods suspect. I had even planned out my spiel about how much damage the Mormon church has done to some friends of mine over the years, and plead with them to think deeply about their beliefs.
But when I got down there, I couldn't do it. Two poor, brain-washed 19 year old boys stood in front of me, sweating like crazy in the heat, with this puppy dog don't-hit-me-look, and I totally caved. Instead of taking my chance to do a little missionary work on them (whoa, does THAT sound wrong) and get a few points in for our side, I chatted pleasantly and gave one a glass of water.
I know it's not for you to judge me, (not for them either, ha!) but what do you guys do when they show up?
2007-08-28 11:50:32 · 14 answers · asked by Anonymous in Society & Culture ➔ Cultures & Groups ➔ Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender
Hah! I felt the exact way you did when they rang my doorbell, and I ended up feeling the same way you did when I saw the poor boys. It was three years ago. They were so pitiful and hot and tired. I gave them both a bottle of cold water and I told them I was gay and totally not interested, but they were free to come in a rest a bit. We chatted about the neighborhood for a few minutes and they went on their way.
I didn't feel too badly about passing up my opportunity to "preach". I felt sorry for the poor guys.
2007-08-28 12:06:28 · answer #1 · answered by FTW 7 · 3⤊ 0⤋
You did what you KNEW was right and proper. Treat others as you would have them treat you. The young missionaries are good people. By treating them decently, you may have taught them a better lesson then if you had taken them to task for their beliefs.
I have a couple of Mormon friends, have read a fair part of the Book of Mormon, and understand and respect their beliefs. They know I do not agree with many of their teachings, but that's alright. We respect and care about each other enough that our friendship is more important.
When a pair of missionaries comes calling, if I have time, I welcome them in and offer them a refreshment. I let them know right up front that that I'm not interested in discussing religion. Then I turn the conversation to them personally, changing it to a 'friendly' visit. I would like to think I may have altered their thinking a little, just by treating them kindly.
2007-08-29 00:40:57 · answer #2 · answered by sandyblondegirl 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I'm with you. I met two out on their bikes last summer on my walk and invited them over if they happened to catch me at home the next week, but I haven't seen them since. Maybe this summer. I have the time, enjoy the company, and have high sales resistance (I once sat through an hour spiel in my living room from a Encyclopedia Britannica salesman without buying a thing!). I have two hopes, one being to convert them to Methodism, the other to seduce them. But if I only let them rattle on about their beliefs until they run dry, I'll be happy. I guess what I'm really looking forward to is chatting about being gay with religious zealots who are sworn not to judge.
2007-08-28 19:18:57 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Matthew 7:12 Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.
Good verse to remember when those pesky Mormon missionaries come around.
Don't you think?
2007-08-31 06:37:39 · answer #4 · answered by mormon_4_jesus 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
First , good for you for having a heart and see someone in need ( the water ) . Most people would have shut the door after saying I don't want anything . ( I have even done this ) . There will always be another time for you to hold up your head and give it to someone ( the fight ..lol ) . I think you did good .
2007-08-28 19:07:37 · answer #5 · answered by kennyt9201 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I am sure that whatever higher being you believe in, is pleased. I did it for two years, and we were always grateful to see a person who answered the door and did not slam it in our faces. They are out sharing a message of happiness and joy and it is hard on the soul when people treat it with contempt. Kudos to you.
2007-08-29 13:45:54 · answer #6 · answered by Senator John McClain 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Ahh i'm lucky i live in England and that doesn't happen really. Just do what you did. Offer a drink and act intrested and say you'll think about it and contact them if you decide to. Then throw the leaflet in the bin
2007-08-28 19:00:46 · answer #7 · answered by Sallymander 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I served a mission and it was tough. Even though I regret it now that I know better, I still apreciate those "true" Christians that were secure enough in their belief to treat me with respect and caring.
You did great!
2007-08-29 00:27:56 · answer #8 · answered by jungle84025 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I tell them I believe Jesus died in my sins, but I am not interested in their ministry as I already have a church, I already have a relationship with Jesus, but thanks anyway!
Just let them know kindly that you are not interested. It's sort of difficult, but if you show them the slightest bit of interest of compassion, they won't stop beating down your door. They'll cross you off their list if you tell them you have a friend in Jesus.
2007-08-29 08:23:20 · answer #9 · answered by Katie JJ 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I know what you mean!
These two young men came to talk to my family too and they were wearing SUITS! It was so hot outside and they were young...to me they are very dedicated for that and my family and I respectfully talked to them for a little :)
2007-08-28 19:12:52 · answer #10 · answered by The Smile Man 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋