SoSick, I agree about talking behind people's backs. I'd rather know to my face so, actually, appreciate that you say what you "really" think more than otherwise. Right now I'm tired of the syrupy sweet folks of the south who talk mean about people in the next breath cause I don't trust whether they do it about me, too.

Actually there is a joke about the Mormon's thinking they're the only ones in heaven. That is why I don't believe in judging. It ain't over till the fat lady sings and, to us, the gospel is still being preached in the spirit world even after death. Its completely fair and just. EVERYONE will have the chance to choose, even if not while in mortality. But when it boils down to it, there is and will only be one church. The Bible even says that. One faith, One Lord, (One??? - saying off the top of my head). Its about being The Church of Jesus Christ..... But all will need to accept the truth that way to reach their full potential. The difference with us, is that we don't think if you reject it (as a Christian, still), you will not go to "hell." 1st Corinthians talks about the glory of the sun, the moon and the stars. (Celestial, Terrestrial and Telestial). There is modern day revelation....(which is how we know these things, it was seen in vision). The heavens are open again and God is speaking to the earth. Its not exclusive...but does require acceptance as truth to reap the full benefits.

As far as smoking pot, that was very brief and was before getting "saved." (I was 13....maybe just into 14? Don't remember exactly, but didn't live that way long. Just long enough to know it wasn't what I wanted). I like music and really don't find an inconsistency with that if its not offensive to the spirit. Feeling romantic, if something affects you that way, is not a sin. ?? I'm sure Paul Rogers was into drugs at one time or another, but so was I to a small extent when I was 13. Doesn't make me that way now so shouldn't be held against me now. I changed. (But don't care what he does either way...I don't full accept him or all his music, even, but like some of it. Its that simple). The other is just life experiences. (The "boring" part). If anything, I know that it DOESN'T matter.... For what profiteth a man if he gain the whole world but lose his own soul." I really have seen that for myself and believe it. Still, there are good people out there who just happen to be very talented and are in the lime light and its not fair to judge them any more than anyone else. I agree people will be responsible for how they impact or influence kids, etc., though. But famous or not, we ALL influence people.... You've actually made me think about some of that. My tastes change with regards to music according to my moods, and lately, loud things bother me. Nor do I feel relaxed working again. I am very aware of how I impact kids. But, sometimes, you can impact kids you couldn't otherwise if they feel you at least understand them. My most important priority is to help them feel better about themselves in whatever small way I can. (I actually often gravitate toward the more needy kids but like them all..cheerleader/jock to stoner or emo kid). Everybody is insecure. I am too. But I know I'm a good person and have self respect. (What I mean by liking myself). Some kids don't realize how important that is along with all the other pressures they are under. Anyway - the subject is pretty beaten up, but I'm glad to have a "more" civil discussion than in times past. Thanks.