Would You Date a Mormon Guy? Insights from the Perspective of an Ex-Mormon and Active Member
Would You Date a Mormon Guy? Insights from the Perspective of an Ex-Mormon and Active Member
Whether you're an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS), an ex-Mormon, or simply curious about dating someone who identifies as Mormon, the decision to do so can be complex. This article explores the perspectives of both an active member and an ex-Mormon, sharing their firsthand experiences and opinions on dating a Mormon individual.
Ex-Mormon's Experience
Among my past relationships, dating a Mormon guy has been a mixed bag. In the past 50 years, I've had several interactions with Mormons, both as a companion and as a marriage partner. I have been married twice to dedicated members of the church, both times to men who held the Melchizedek Priesthood. My first two marriages were to Mormons, but there were lengthy periods of aloneness between them. Despite these gaps, I maintained my commitment to high moral standards, refusing to 'settle for less.'
One of my experiences involved meeting my second spouse in the temple, where we both served as ordinance workers. We eventually tied the knot and were sealed in the temple, continuing to serve in the same temple together. While some of my dates were short-lived, others were more serious, though they didn't always align with my values. Several revealed hidden issues or eventually left the church, while others were accepted by their families, but only conditionally.
Active Member's Perspective
I am currently an active member of the church, but I also identify as gay. Given my active participation, I have had considerable exposure to Mormon men, having dated a few in the past. However, my experiences didn't always work out, and my current relationship is with an Agnostic Jewish man. If I could find a gay Mormon man with whom I am compatible, I would absolutely date him. The compatibility and mutual respect would be key for both of us.
The Mormon Perspective
Personally, I do not date Mormon men anymore. One of my past relationships was with a Mormon man, but our differences in beliefs made it incompatible. Despite his initial attraction, his beliefs and lifestyle choices made it clear that dating him was not in my best interest. I have dated others since, but none have panned out due to my strong values and the church's teachings.
For me, the most important traits in a potential date or partner are mutual positive opinions, alignment of core values, and compatibility. If those elements are present, a Mormon connection is certainly possible. However, if the beliefs don't line up, it can lead to constant disagreements and frustrations. I have seen firsthand that while some Mormons are supportive of LGBTQ individuals, others may not be compatible due to religious differences.
Conclusion
Dating a Mormon guy can be a deeply rewarding experience if you share compatible values and beliefs. However, it's essential to communicate openly and honestly about your values and expectations. Whether you're a gay Mormon, an active member, or a completed member, your decision should be based on compatibility and mutual respect.
Together, these experiences illustrate the diverse range of possibilities and challenges when dating someone who identifies as Mormon. Whether you're interested in a physical, spiritual, or emotional connection, understanding the nuances of Mormon beliefs and practices is crucial for success.