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I am having discussions with local missionaries and I think I want to join, but my problem is I don't really like black people. I think the way I was raised has a lot to do with this. What should I do?
Robert from Jacksonville, 6/6/2009
 | AllAboutMormons.com Webmaster from La Jolla, California: |
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I should say, though, that even if you can technically be baptized, you'll need to deal with these issues if you want to get the most out of your new religion. The church teaches that all of God's children are of equal, infinite value. All should be treated with respect. Depending on where you live, there may be black Mormons in your congregation. Some of your church leaders may have African heritage. The Church is growing rapidly in many parts of the world, and there is already a General Authority from Sub-Saharan Africa. There's no question that the future of the Mormonism will be intimately tied to the African continent. Best of luck to you!
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Matty D from La Jolla, California:
Hello Robert, what an interesting question. Regardless of your religious status it's my opinion, and the opinion of many others, that you should reconsider these prejudiced feelings. It would appear that you have already recognized that there is a problem, and I commend you for that. Mentioning that the way you were raised is a likely source of your aversion to African Americans is a good first step. I'm sure that as you continue progressing in the church you will be encouraged, either internally or externally, to reevaluate your social views. There is no room for these feelings in the LDS religion, and if you truly want to progress individually and as a member of a congregation, I would suggest you identify the root of your aversion, make a conscious decision to end it, and eventually see African Americans as you see everyone else. Sooner would be better than later.Anonymous from Albuquerque:
The Lord loves us all. As you become closer to the Lord and ask for his help in overcoming your prejudices, he will help. You will find many wonderful people of all races, colors, nationalities in our church and will learn to love all of them. The Lord helps you to see people not by color but by the content of their heart. That should not be a reason not to join the church -- but a reason to open your heart to all.Anonymous from Provo:
I was once a little standoffish to people who had different colored skin then I had (dark) until I talked to and became friends with a man named Shawn. The most lively and funny individual I had ever met. He was creative, funny, and turns out human just like I was, oh and yes he was a black american man. Shawn had the same general problems I had in my life and we only lost contact after I had divorced my wife and he chose also to divorce his..... Years later I learned what I mistake I had made but that choice is in the past now.I've met a few other darker-colored skin, americans in my life. Some I got along with almost right away, others we didn't hit it off so those were encounters I've had and forgotten and learned from.
All people of all colors and cultures are different. I feel you are limiting yourself in your self proclaimed dislike of a whole people based on past experiences with one or two of them? Or is it that your parents taught you to not like darker skinned people for an unknown reason?.. FYI that sounds like the Laminites who taught their kids to hate the Nephites just because they were Nephite.
My advice to you, if you're looking for advice, is to understand that all people of every race are all different. I feel you can't judge a person because of their race not having anything at all with the person, but because you would be limiting your own self. God has accepted of the african heritiage, dark skin people, so if God can accept of them perhaps you should pray and see if you can't find acceptance also.
Bottom line it is a choice you make every time you choose to think bad about any person, no matter their skin color, the way they dress, the way they talk, etc... Take each person as an individual and give them the benifit of the doubt over and over again, until you lose contact or make a friend. Pray for strength to accept your brothers and sisters and go forward with how you feel about the church if you choose to join.
...... FYI this church is true so joining is a big step, but a more sure step to a greater future past this life.... Know also that God will not tempt you above that which you are able to bear and he will make a way for your escape from evil if you call on him. Best of luck in moving forward.