[UntoHim]

Originally Posted by Freedom

There is a lot more that can be said about growing up in the LC, but I don't want to get too far off topic. The problem with growing up in the LC is that everything related to the LC seems "normal" and everything on the outside seems "abnormal".

Wow, what a very insightful observation! I never really thought about putting it that way, but now that you mention it really makes sense. Of course The Local Church is not the only insular, self-absorbed group where we see this dynamic play out so strong, but it's the one we are most familiar with, so I would love to see this theme develop here on this thread (or elsewhere if appropriate)

I came in contact with the LC when I was a 17 yr old Junior in High School, and before I knew it, I was attended 3 or 4 meetings a week and of course every holiday was consumed with special conferences and bi-annual trainings. All of the sudden family events and birthdays were considered "worldly" and to be avoided. This hurt my mother deeply...especially when I wouldn't bother to take a Saturday or Sunday afternoon for a special family event or especially her birthday. This was way back in the day, mid 1970s, and I understand things have loosened up a bit. (you younger guys can chime in on this notion much better than me)

For example I got a text from a current member who was staying at a long-time LC couple's home - the sister (wife) had received a Mother's Day flower bouquet from her son who is LSM full-timer. I thought to myself, man, this would have never happened 30 or maybe even 20 years ago. Mother's Day?...who cares about Mother's Day when you have 2 or 3 meetings to enjoy the Ministry! And that $20 bucks for the flowers could be better spent on the "Up-To-Date, High Peak, Ministry of the Age, Current Speaking".