Mormons in the Community: Grace, Dedication, and Humanitarianism

Mormons, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, are known for their dedication to the principles of their faith, particularly the Golden Rule, which teaches, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." This article explores how Mormons treat themselves and others in their communities, highlighting their values, practices, and the challenges they face in maintaining a balanced and compassionate lifestyle.

The Golden Rule: A Core Principle

The Golden Rule is a foundational principle in Mormonism, as it is in many faiths. Mormons strive to treat others as they would like to be treated, demonstrating civility and respect in all interactions. This principle also guides their self-care practices, as they seek to emulate virtuous and admirable qualities such as kindness, humility, and perseverance.

Community Involvement and Self-Care

Mormons are often very active within their community and church, which can lead to overexertion. Being active in family, religious, and community events, they are likely to exercise, eat well, and maintain good grooming. However, with the constant pressure to perform and contribute, they may struggle to prioritize self-care and set reasonable boundaries for themselves. Balancing self-care and community involvement can be challenging but is encouraged.

Mormon Life in Vernal, Utah: Times Past and Present

In the 1950s, life in Vernal, Utah, for some Mormons was quite different from today. One example is Frank Sessions, a man who lived in a dugout, a small underground structure. Born in the early 20th century, Frank and his family lived in this primitive setting, which included his parents and his siblings Tom and Mary. Every member of the family had defined chores, including Frank's younger brother, who was tasked with fetching water for the family's stallion, a key source of income.

Despite living in poverty, Frank and his siblings adhered to the values and expectations of their faith. However, unlike family members who had moved to more conventional dwellings in Vernal, Frank, who did not claim to be a Mormon, relied on the assistance of the community, particularly from my father. This support included basic necessities like food, often provided in the form of home-cooked meals rather than cash.

Frank's personal life was rife with challenges. With no teeth and a lack of proper grooming, he was often smelly and dirty. Despite these difficulties, he was drawn to my mother, a source of social pressure within the community. Due to personal and spiritual reasons, he never joined the Church but remained a neighbor and a part of the community life.

Despite hardships, people in the community like Frank's neighbor, Edras Karren, exhibited remarkable kindness. Karren, a single mother with three teenage children, faced her own set of challenges but took care of Frank with dedication, even giving him baths and caring for his personal hygiene. This act of compassion exemplifies the core tenets of Mormonism and humanism.

Conclusion

Mormons, guided by the principles of the Golden Rule, strive to treat others with kindness and respect while also practicing self-care. While it can be challenging to balance these responsibilities, they often succeed in upholding these values, even in the face of overwhelming pressures. Understanding Mormon life and values through the lens of their community interactions and personal stories provides a deeper appreciation for their enduring commitment to both their faith and human well-being.