Hi! :) I hope this doesn't sound too stupid, but some of our best friends are Mormon, and I was wondering if there are some things that are considered offensive in the Mormon religion and how to avoid them. I really love them and I just don't want to do anything to make them uncomfortable or offend them! Thank you so much! Cassidy, 12 :)
Cassi from Raleigh
, 12/1/2007
Efialtis from Riverdale:
Don't worry about it too much. If they are your friends, they know you don't share their religion. If you accidentally offend them, they will probably laugh it off and let you in on the "big secret". So don't worry too hard, but here is a small list of items to avoid:
Sex. Sex in the LDS Church is something discussed and practiced between a man and his wife. It is a subject not really suitable for outside discussion, other than in "medical" terms. In other words, don't invite your Mormon friends over for a "swapping party" and never ask about their favorite "positions".
Drugs. Drugs in general, but also coffee, tea (non-herbal), tobacco, alcohol (including beer) are things that Mormons tend to stay away from. Don't offer your Mormon friends a beer, or offer to take them out to a bar.
Swear words. Words like "f***" and "s***" are not considered to be at all "proper" and should be avoided, just because it makes conversation difficult after that.
And when all else fails, like I said, Mormons tend to be very forgiving to people who might "slip" and say or do something "offensive," and they are usually very open and honest about things that make them uncomfortable (the mark of true friendship, right?) Other than that, enjoy your new Mormon friends. Just don't get them wet or feed them after midnight! ;-}
Really dont worry too much, but follow the advice of the others that got here first, and really I think ask questions. Chances are if you ask respectfully and actually want to know or understand, then ask. They would probably love to answer your questions (even if its just questions about some other things that you think might offend them). We really do try to be friendly and forgiving so really, like I said, dont worry to much. =)
Todd from Queen Creek, AZ:
Don't be afraid to ask questions of your friends as long as they are respectful. You probably know that using profane language, telling dirty stories or jokes, etc. is considered offensive. Other than that, the only other things I can think of are: don't make fun of things that we consider holy or sacred. If you hear some things that are anti-Mormon, don't spread it like gossip. It's better to talk to your Mormon friends to ask them about it if you have questions. Basically, just show respect for each other.
