I heard this "On being" program on Npr this morning. I had/have many questions about this secretive faith; I especially want to have an idea of how being a mormon (a bishop, no less) would influence a Romney presidency, and downstream, me, should he actually win in November.
"On Being" is an insightful program that explores spiritual questions and point of views for living today in this diverse world. I have heard interviews with atheist Christopher Hitchens, the Dalai Lama, humanists, naturalists, philosophic leaders, to mention a few. The discussions are respectful, provocative and deep.Today, the host, Krista Tippett, aired a 51 minute portion of a 2011 interview she conducted with Joanna Brookes, the "go to girl" on being a mormon. (Ms Brookes is a mormon, married to a Jewish husband.) There is also a link to the 82 minute unedited interview available.
Link found below the orange squiggle...
This only my second diary, the first with a link provided, so I hope I do it right.
http://www.onbeing.org/...
I really have been craving access to informed, non-partisan discussion about this faith.
It was such a breath of fresh air to wake up to this program and find some answers to some of my questions in it.
After listening to it, I feel myself to be a bit better informed. I hope you will be able to listen to it, and enjoy it in the process.
7:17 AM PT: It was recommended that I summarize this interview.
Okay, but I will be brief. Krista Tippitt asks deep questions of her guests. I don't know how to ask " hardball" or "softball" questions regarding spiritual beliefs without being judgemental. Krista Tippett is not judgemental; she inquires into various belief systems and we the listeners are left to form our own opinions.
Basic tenents of mormonism were discussed, giving background to questions of possible/probable policy stances and resulting legislation under a Romney presidency. These issues include race, LGBT issues, women's rights (or lack of them), the mormon church's demands of obedience, its materialistic philosophy for adherents, family, pre and afterlife of its adherents: promises and requiements. Even touched a bit on the "magic underwear" stuff.
Thinking people cannot dispute the influence of religion (or lack of it) on our actions or inactions with regard to how each of us conducts our lives and relationships with others. I am deeply concerned about how the religious beliefs of our politicians, including president, are going to affect me.
Think fundy evangelist and Taliban influence on the political stage.
Personally, I am cool with someone wanting to be a mormon. But after consideration, there is no way that I want a mormon, beholden to the tea party, as president. To go further, I want to make clear, that I do not want to be at the mercy of ANY GOP policy or politician.
I only offer this link as "background."