For some Latter-day Saint women, embracing the journey may include reckoning with difficult aspects of the church experience that are specific to women. Some may choose to leave when they find their personal cost exceeds their benefit. In Episode 152, Susan and Cynthia muddy the water around the decision to ‘stay’ with a frank discussion about things a woman may have to accept, ignore, or sacrifice in order to make that choice.
Notes & Quotes:
Living on the Inside of the Edge: A Survival Guide, by Christian Kimball
Cynthia’s social media post
Spiritual Treasures, by Russell M. Nelson, 10/2019
“Like racism, patriarchy is a shapeshifter—conforming to each new era, looking as if it has always belonged.”
— Beth Allison Barr, The Making of Biblical Womanhood: How the Subjugation of Women Became Gospel Truth
Jordan
My wife asked me to listen to this episode and I’m glad I did. I agree that women who share your feelings need to speak up and men as well. There is no tolerance for discussion about policy change from men either. I served as Bishop for a short time and I think the reason it was only a short time was because I was constantly asking why and questioning the way we do things in the church (just little things, not important things like you are discussing). Some time after being released our Stake President asked all men in bishoprics to shave their facial hair because one of the general authorities said something about it in a coordinating council. I found myself in a social setting with the Stake President where this was being discussed and I thought he was going to excommunicate me right there when I asked him if this policy was in the handbook and how shaving a beard would help an individual or the people unto whom he ministered grow closer to the Savior. There is no way to question policies without being looked down upon no matter what sex you are.