In making the transition from TBM to ? an agnostic? atheist? I've been thinking about how much time I've lost.

I don't mean the years I spent as a TBM - but the eternity after death that I had been planning on. I don't think I realized how much I incorporated this idea of living forever into my life planning until I had to stop doing it. You know how many things you can procrastinate when you think you have forever???

Now that I truly think that I only have this one life to live, I cannot believe how much more precious and beautiful it is. This is it!! If there is something awesome to do, or someplace beautiful to go, I need to get off my ass pronto, because there is no such thing as second chances, just wasted time.

I actually think this idea - of living forever - is something that keeps the average TBM complacent and unaware. Sure you didn't go on that weekend camping trip, because you *had* to go to church, but whatever, you'll have your own planet to camp on later. Ok, you didn't get to do that thing you love because you couldn't afford it cuz you've been paying 10% of your income to the church, but no worries. You've got eternity baby.

The church promises forever then steals today.

I so agree. Well said.

Wow. So quotable: "The church promises forever then steals today."

Good job and thanks!

Love it. Very well said.

None of your life is wasted...it is a learning experience regardless of the time spent. Count yourself lucky you live in a country where you can believe what you want...and start learning something new today and everyday. Now where is that map of Europe I was searching for....

Once I was talking with my totallyyyyyy tbm bishop and happened to mention what I wanted to research in graduate school. He said I could do the research in the celestial kingdom; I needed to get married and have children NOW, in this life.

I didn't.
So glad.